Former Spurs fan favourite, Jermain Defoe, has offered his verdict on Tottenham Hotspur’s new big-money signing, Dominic Solanke – and he has plenty of advice for the number 19.
Solanke’s journey to N17
Dominic Solanke certainly earned his move to Tottenham. Scoring 19 Premier League goals in 38 appearances, he helped AFC Bournemouth to a 12th-place finish last season (Transfer Markt).
But Solanke is under much more pressure at Tottenham than he faced at Bournemouth. The 27-year-old has already been criticised for his lack of goals in his first few matches at Spurs, a consequence that comes with being the club’s record signing – costing £65m.
However, he is now getting to grips with playing for Spurs and has just represented England for the first time in almost seven years, grabbing an assist against Greece, despite only spending around 20 minutes on the pitch.
Defoe praises Solanke
Speaking to Gambling.com, Defoe has commended Tottenham’s newest striker, who he believes will get even better at Spurs given time.
He said: “I like Dominic Solanke. He’s nicked a couple of goals now, which is good. He got off to a slow start and after three games, people were sort of questioning the signing. But I think that’s just part and parcel of football really, every player’s had it.
“If you’re not playing well, then people are going to come for you. If you’re playing well then everyone loves you.
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“I did say that he’ll come good. He’ll score goals because of the way Tottenham play, they create a lot of chances. So it’s just up to him to take them.
“I think for him, he just needs to just focus on playing well and improving. He’s just got back in the England squad, which is good.
“I know he didn’t get any minutes, but just to be amongst it is good. Ivan Toney’s gone to Saudi, so there’s a space there. You’ve got Harry Kane and Ollie Watkins who will always be involved. I think for him, just focus on goals, focus on playing well and improving, and keep himself in and around the English squad.”
Solanke could become very important to Tottenham
Solanke was criticised for failing to score in his first few matches for Spurs, particularly on his debut against Leicester City. However, while he missed some big chances, he did most other things well, holding up the ball and making runs which were often ignored.
It now looks like Solanke has found his shooting boots, scoring three goals in his last four starts. Although he may not be a direct replacement for Harry Kane, Solanke offers something different and could make a real difference for Tottenham this season.